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Abstract:
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The purpose of this study is to discuss and use theoretical integration in an attempt to better explain criminal behavior . Data for this study was obtained through a random power sample of undergraduate college students enrolled in criminology and criminal justice classes . Respondents chose a criminal behavior from a typology of drug , property , or violent criminal acts , and then chose theories which could aid in the explanation of that criminal behavior . The respondents were also asked the same concerning self -reported criminal activity . Analysis of the data showed that theoretical integration was used , by the respondents , to explain drug -related crimes committed by a third person . Through this inductive process , the respondents , used the following theories to potentially better understand drug -related crimes : rational choice theory , hedonistic calculus , and differential opportunity theory . The author integrated these theories using Hirschi's up -and -down method . Furthermore , this study found that when explaining self -reported activity theoretical integration was not required . In this case , a single theory was used to explain property crimes , rational choice theory . Additional analysis was completed based on gender and major . This analysis included inductive theoretical integration , t -test , and the reporting of nominal data |